The children died after the massive blaze engulfed their semi-­detached house in Allenton, Derby, on 11 May.

Philpott broke down in tears and held his head in his hands as he entered his plea to each of the six charges. His wife was more composed as she also pleaded not guilty, but became tearful during the hour-long hearing.

A second man, who was charged with the six murders on Monday by Derbyshire Police, also appeared in the dock.

Grey-haired Paul Mosley, 45, of Derby, did not speak during the hearing and did not enter a plea. The three accused were flanked by 11 prison officers in the dock, with a line of five ­sitting behind the couple, ­separating them from Mosley.

The Honourable Mrs Justice Kate Thirlwall remanded the three into custody. They are due to appear at Birmingham Crown Court on 29 November.